'The Things That Keep Us Here' by Carla Buckley follows the story of Ann and Peter, a couple struggling with a failing marriage while facing the outbreak of a lethal strain of bird flu. As the pandemic unfolds, the family must navigate rationing, isolation, and difficult decisions to survive in a world where infrastructures and society disintegrate. The tension in the book is palpable, portraying a post-apocalyptic scenario where individuals are forced to confront their vulnerabilities and make tough choices to protect their loved ones.

The narrative of the book is gripping and thought-provoking, delving into themes of disaster preparedness, family dynamics, and human resilience. Through a realistic and tangible portrayal of a possible pandemic, the author challenges readers to consider their own responses in similar situations and highlights the fragility of our routines and society in the face of a crisis.

Characters:

The characters are complex, contending with moral dilemmas and trauma, particularly focusing on strong parental figures.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style includes realistic family portrayals and emotionally charged descriptions, though the dialogue may be quirky and occasionally confusing.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers around family dynamics during a pandemic, exploring survival challenges and the reconnection of estranged family members.

Setting:

The setting is suburban Ohio during a pandemic, providing a post-apocalyptic feel as societal structures disintegrate.

Pacing:

The pacing is compelling and quick during tension-filled moments, with a slower build-up leading to crises.

Notes:

The book explores a realistic depiction of a family's struggle during a pandemic.

Set against the backdrop of an avian flu outbreak, the story highlights themes of survival and family dynamics.

The main characters, Ann and Peter, face challenges that test their parenting and marriage amidst crisis.

Readers connect with the story, questioning their own potential reactions in similar situations.

The narrative illustrates how quickly societal norms can break down in stressful circumstances.

Ann shows incredible resilience and resourcefulness to protect her children throughout the crisis.

The book reflects real anxieties during the COVID-19 pandemic, making it timely and relatable.

It provides a chilling glimpse into a post-apocalyptic scenario where trust and survival are paramount.

The tension in the story builds over months without electricity and dwindling food supplies.

The author, Carla Buckley, is praised for her compelling storytelling in her debut novel.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of panic, societal collapse, disease, loss of a child, and potentially triggering discussions of survival.

From The Publisher:

Everything seems quiet on Ann Brooks's suburban cul-de-sac. Despite her impending divorce, she's created a happy home and her daughters are adjusting to the change. She feels lucky to be in a supportive community and confident that she can handle any other hardship that life may throw her way. But then, right before Thanksgiving, a crisis strikes that turns everybody's world upside down. Suddenly her estranged husband is forced back onto her doorstep, bringing with him his beautiful graduate assistant. Trapped inside the house she once called home, confronted by challenges she never could have imagined, Ann must make life-or-death decisions in an environment where the simple act of opening a door to a neighbor could jeopardize all she holds dear.

The choices she makes will impact the lives of those around her irrevocably and linger in the reader's memory in this marvelous first novel, written with authority, grace, and wisdom.

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The Things That Keep Us Here

Carla Buckley